Leading independent integrator of packaging lines Autopack has been appointed UK and Ireland distribution partner to SIDE, which manufactures PET blow molding machinery. The move opens new markets to both Autopack and SIDE with a particular focus on enabling the onsite production of PET bottles and containers using fast, cost-effective, advanced technology in the personal and home care sectors.

Based in Barcelona, Spain, SIDE has over 50 years' experience of creating custom-made plastic container blowers for a wide range of applications from food and beverages to pharmaceutical and cosmetics. With its headquarters in Hereford, Autopack is a leading independent supplier of packaging and processing machinery to the food, drink, chemical, cleaning, and personal care sectors. 

Jonathon Stewart, Sales Director at Autopack, said: “Our expertise in providing integrated and tailored packaging solutions make us the ideal partner for SIDE. We are committed to growing our respective businesses by tapping into new markets.” 

“The partnership is an opportunity to expand our portfolio, and the personal and homecare sectors are the perfect starting points. Our target market is medium range customers demanding the highest quality blow molding machines, so whether you require large 50 liter water tanks or 250ml oil bottles, we have the versatility and performance to elevate your production capabilities.”

Blow molders are increasingly popular for PET bottles and containers, not only for beverage markets but personal and home care segments too. The ability to produce these in-situ as an integral part of the production line offers significant cost and environmental benefits to manufacturers. Pre-formed empty bottles no longer need shipping or storing, avoiding the complex and costly logistical challenges for packing a wide range of goods.

To meet the range of requirements SIDE manufacturers three PET blowers, which are well suited for these markets. The versatile Model 1002e can produce up to 4,000 containers per hour and targets flexible applications. From wide mouth or oval to asymmetric and funnel necks, the 1002e can switch formats easily. It targets bottles of 200ml to 3 liters in size. 

The Model 2004e can handle up to 7,000 containers per hour with the aim of guaranteeing operational simplicity and high reliability in large-scale packaging manufacturing facilities. Like the 1002e, the 2004e is designed for bottle ranges of 200ml to 3 liters with a pitch of 160mm distance.

Finally, the Model 2006e is designed for larger scale production and produces 10,000 containers per hour. It’s pitched to bottles of 200ml to 2 liters in size.

Angel Catalan, EMEA Sales Manager at SIDE, added: “Our partnership with Autopack will build our profile in the UK market; one that we feel has enormous potential. Linking with Autopack means we can learn so much from their expertise and experience in automation and packaging line solutions. Together, we have so many solutions for different markets – personal and home care markets are well served by our technology and overall aftersales service response.”

Jonathon Stewart added: “Our success is as a trusted partner, delivering precision in engineering and project delivery. We are looking forward to building a very special relationship with SIDE and making a difference to our customer base.”